The Anaheim Ducks begin their season against the Vegas Golden Knights tonight. Ahead of tonight’s game, I’ll be looking at the Anaheim’s roster compares against the Golden Knights’ roster.
I’ve already released five other articles in this series as well, looking at how the Ducks’ roster compares against other teams in their division, which you can read here:
Up front, the Ducks don’t come close to touching the Golden Knights. Vegas has about five key forwards who can put up big numbers, including Max Pacioretty and Mark Stone. The Ducks don’t have the same key players at the top of their lineup and don’t really have anyone who can provide more than secondary scoring. The Ducks are integrating younger players into their lineup and those forwards could have an impact but they also cut Trevor Zegras, who had the highest ceiling of any of their forward prospects. Vegas certainly has the edge over the Ducks up front.
Advantage: Golden Knights
DEFENSE
Anaheim improved their defense group this offseason and despite some surprising moves with their blue line leading into the season, they should have a stronger defense group this year. That said, Alex Pietrangelo is a huge addition for Vegas, while Shea Theodore, along with Alec Martinez and Brayden McNabb, will provide defensive stability for the Golden Knights. Vegas has a good mix of defensemen who can put up points and those who are capable of taking on tough matchups and as a result, they should have the edge defensively.
Advantage: Golden Knights
GOALTENDING
The goaltending battle between the Ducks and Golden Knights should be a good one. Robin Lehner has had two very strong seasons in a row and should provide Vegas with quality goaltending on a consistent basis. John Gibson, on the other hand, remains a star for the Ducks and is likely to steal some games this season. Anaheim and Vegas should both be set in net and this goaltending matchup looks fairly even.
Advantage: N/A
The Ducks may be able to rebound this season but they’re not going to be better than the Golden Knights.
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Here’s today’s poll question (results and discussion will be posted in a future article):
Who would you rather have as your starting goalie?
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